What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 15:23? But each in his own turn • Paul sets a clear, orderly sequence for resurrection, pushing back against doubts in Corinth (1 Corinthians 15:12). • God’s redemptive plan unfolds step-by-step; nothing is random (Acts 17:31). • Just as harvests are gathered in stages in Leviticus 23:9-14, so too the resurrection harvest comes in planned phases. Christ the firstfruits “Christ the firstfruits” (1 Corinthians 15:23). • His bodily resurrection is the guarantee and sample of the full harvest to come (Colossians 1:18; Revelation 1:5). • Like the sheaf waved before God on the Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:10-11), Jesus was presented alive after death, assuring the rest of the crop will follow (Romans 6:9). • Because He lives, believers’ future resurrection is certain (John 14:19). then at His coming “then at His coming” (1 Corinthians 15:23). • The Greek word Paul uses for coming is consistently linked to Christ’s visible return (Matthew 24:27; 1 Thessalonians 4:15). • This points to a definite moment, not a vague spiritual experience—just as the angels promised in Acts 1:11. • The same power that raised Jesus will act again on that day (Philippians 3:20-21). those who belong to Him “those who belong to Him” (1 Corinthians 15:23). • These are all who have trusted Christ, sealed by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14). • They will rise first if already asleep, or be transformed if alive (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52). • Union with Christ guarantees participation in His victory over death (Romans 8:11). summary 1 Corinthians 15:23 lays out God’s resurrection order: first, Christ rose as the prototype and pledge; next, at His visible return, every believer will be raised or changed. The verse assures us that the same Lord who conquered the grave is committed to completing the harvest—bringing all who are His into glorified, imperishable life forever. |
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